What's New

'Putting the Hearth back into the Home' has begun. This is the first of the development work to restore the chimney and fireplaces in the entrance hall and fore-kitchen.

Many discoveries are being made - why not come and see. Also major conservation work is being carried out to the walls, roof and windows externally. To follow the progress, see our Facebook page.

We have produced video footage and information about our 'Welcome Home' development project.

The Grounds

The Rectory is set in peaceful grounds. Some is still maintained as a croft where heritage breeds of livestock graze. There is also an established lawn area, perfect for picnics, a heritage orchard and wildflower garden, a vegetable area and the Physic Garden. Here the plants that John Wesley used in his book of home-spun remedies 'Primitive Physic' are growing click here for more information.

News from the MWiB

Methodist Women in Britain (MWiB) Heritage and Archives Project: 'Transforming the World from the kitchen? - the story of women working together in British Methodism'click here more information.

Coming Soon

Welcome to Epworth Old Rectory

A visit to this impressive Grade 1 listed Old Rectory built in Queen Anne style in 1709, will transport you back to life in the early 18th century and introduce you to the remarkable family who lived there.

This is the home in which the Rector of the parish of St. Andrew, Epworth, Samuel Wesley and his wife Susanna brought up their sons, John and Charles Wesley, who went on to develop the Methodist movement, with their seven sisters and elder brother Samuel.

Come and visit the Old Rectory and see how the Wesley family lived and learn about the influences of their early life here. The history of 18th century England is brought to life here and you can learn about the huge influence the Wesleys had on it.

Other things to do

You can also visit the shop selling books and other items relating to Epworth Old Rectory and the Wesley family. There is also a special exhibition every year which you can experience as part of the tour of the house, or separately. In addition there are second hand books on sale which raise funds for the development of Epworth Old Rectory.

Catering can be arranged for groups click here for details and a range of other activities are also available click here for details.

Help us to care for the Old Rectory

The Old Rectory Epworth is a registered charitable trust (number 1140335), and like every charity, we need your support to help us look after the house and collections for today’s visitors, and secure them for future generations. Donations are vital, and we are immensely grateful to you for your interest and support - click here to support us.

Words of Wesley

There is nothing we are, or have, or do,
which can deserve the least thing at God's hand
whatever righteousness may be found in man,
this is also the gift of God.